How to choose a fall arrest harness to EN 361
The full body harness is the core of personal fall protection and spreads the arrest forces safely across the body. This guide explains the EN 361 requirements, selection by fit and attachment points, and matching the harness to the job.
View harnessesWhat does EN 361 require of a harness?
EN 361 is the European standard for full body harnesses used in a fall arrest system. It requires the harness to spread the arrest forces across the shoulders, thighs and pelvis and to hold the body upright after the fall is stopped.
Only a harness to EN 361 may be used for fall arrest. A pure work positioning belt to EN 358 or a sit harness to EN 813 does not replace it, because they cannot absorb the fall energy safely. The complete system keeps the arrest force on the body below 6 kN.
Which attachment points do you need?
Attachment points are the only places on the harness where a fall arrest system may be connected. They are marked with the capital letter A and sit on the back or the chest.
- Dorsal ring: the most common attachment point, ideal for work with clear fall space below.
- Sternal point: suited to guided type climbing systems on ladders and entry into vessels.
- A/2 points: two half rings (for example on the shoulders) that form one anchor only when connected together.
- Side positioning rings and a front sit ring are for positioning only, never for arresting a fall.
How do you find the right fit?
A harness only protects when it fits well. The leg loops, chest strap and back plate must be set so a flat hand just fits between the webbing and the body without the harness slipping.
For long wear times, padded shoulder and leg areas plus an ergonomic back plate that spreads the load are worth the investment. Polyester webbing is dimensionally stable and durable, polyamide is more elastic. Match the harness to the job: welders need heat resistant aramid webbing, while rope rescue benefits from extra sit and positioning rings.
- Choose the size by height and weight and check the adjustment range.
- Before every use, inspect visually for cuts, abrasion and damaged stitching.
- Have a competent person inspect it after a fall or at least every 12 months.
- Respect the maker's service life, often around 8 to 10 years.
Frequently asked questions
How do I recognise a compliant harness?
By the EN 361 marking on the label and by the attachment points marked with the letter A. Only those points may be connected to a fall arrest system.
What do the A/2 points mean?
A/2 marks two half rings, usually on the shoulders. They form a full attachment point only when both are connected together with a suitable connector.
How often must a harness be inspected?
Visually before every use and at least every 12 months by a competent person. After a fall the harness must be withdrawn from use immediately.
Is the harness alone enough for fall arrest?
No. It is part of a system with a lanyard, an energy absorber and a rated anchor point. Only together do they keep the arrest force below 6 kN.
Looking for the right harness?
We supply full body harnesses to EN 361 with dorsal and sternal points, padded and in several sizes - including advice on the complete fall arrest system.
Standard tested
Every harness meets EN 361 for fall arrest.
Fit advice
We help with size and application.
Inspection ready
With label and record card for documentation.
Complete system
Lanyards and anchor points from one source.